Frequently Asked Questions by UNF's Wireless Users

Where is wireless available on UNF's campus?

You can access the wireless service in any of the indoor and/or outdoor areas where the service has been deployed. Areas with wireless are illustrated in our coverage maps.

How do I login?

No login is required if you will be accessing the Internet. Accessing other resources will require a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection and a UNF userID.

What do I need to use the wireless network?

You will need a wireless card, networking software, and application software.

What type of wireless card do I need to use?

UNF’s wireless network supports 802.11g technology throughout the campus and 802.11n in the Residence Halls, Student Union, and the library.It is recommended that computers be equipped with 802.11a/g/n wireless adapters.

How do I configure my wireless network card?

Network cards will not require any special configuration. Follow the installation instructions and activate the card.

How do I connect to UNF's Wireless networks?

What do I enter for the SSID, radio channel, and WEP key?

You should not enter any enter any of this information. If you do configure any of these settings you may not be able to access the network. Your computer in it's default configuration should be able to automatically detect the settings it needs from the network.

Everything is installed and configured, how do I get on the network?

You will not need to login to the network if you will be using a web browser. If you wish to access other UNF resources, you must establish a VPN connection. Use of the VPN will provide a secure connection across the wireless network.

What if I am still having problems getting wireless to work?

Check the Troubleshooting page for more assistance. If it does not provide the help you need, contact the ITS Help Desk at 620-4357 (HELP) or email helpdesk@unf.edu.

How fast is the connection?

Although they are marketed as 54Mbps, the actual throughput of 802.11G and 802.11A devices are in reality are 22-25MBps per channel. The connection speed depends on the distance the computer is from the wireless access point, the number of users accessing the access point concurrently, and interference from other devices. 802.11A has many more channels available than 802.11G. Therefore 802.11A can carry many more users than 802.11G.

What is the network best used for?

It is ideally suited for applications that require mobility and for locations that are difficult or impossible to wire conventionally. It facilitates and offers new opportunities for research and education. It is also useful for more mundane purposes like checking e-mail or web browsing. Low bandwidth applications in general are the best fit. The limitations of the wireless system can cause unreliable service for applications that require high bandwidth usage.

What should I not use the wireless network for?

As discussed above, applications that require a lot of bandwidth should not be expected to run reliably over the wireless network. This would apply to things like streaming audio/video, running server based applications, large file transfers, and interactive graphic environments (games).

NOTE: Some of the content found on this page was used by permission from the University of Florida, Office of Information Technology - Network Services.